The Woman in White

By: Wilkie Collins

Narrated by: Billy Howle

Published in instalments in 1859, The Woman in White is often considered to be one of the very first detective novels. Although critics weren’t impressed at the time, the novel proved to be a hit with the public and has since gone on to become one of the timeless classics of the Victorian era.

Following the adventures of Walter Hartright, this is a story of sleuthing, inheritance, ghosts and mistaken identity and was recently the subject of a hit TV adaptation by the BBC.

Billy Howle, best known for his starring roles in On Chesil Beach opposite Saoirse Ronan, and with Richard Gere in MotherFatherSon, breathes new life into the masterpiece in this Audible Studios production.

Public Domain (P)2020 Audible, Ltd

Favorite book

I believe that this is also Stephen King’s favorite book. It’s an absolutely wonderful story. I know for a fact that it was Wilkie Collins’ favorite book because he had “Wilkie Collins: Author of The Woman in White inscribed on his tombstone! It’s simply ingenious! I also loved the PBS film, and the recorded radio play. The reader of this book gave a fine performance too! Definitely rates 5 stars!

Amazing!

The authors of my favorite thriller novels, The Agent Pendergast Series, first mentioned this novel in one of their books where the main antagonist is crafted in tribute to Count Fosco. In their recommendation I listened to this read and am so glad I did. I was amazed at the level of sophistication in this book from that time period. Collin’s detective mystery is as every much, if not more, exciting than present day mysteries that rely on high tech gadgets and processes to uncover the crimes. This book had none of that, yet was just as fascinating as the best modern day thriller!

I loved the experience of this story!!!!!

i don't think this story was long enough! I know some reviews said it was too long??I wanted it to go on and on!

Outstanding!

Absolutely captivating, beginning to end! As good as when I read it years ago. I found myself needing "just one more chapter before bed" again and again!

Definitive detective story.

Poe originated the concept; Collins perfected it. After this work, it generally became standardized, starting with his The Moonstone. This is a very different concept for a novel.
What to expect: Fun characters in the tradition of his publisher and collaborator, Charles Dickens. Superb language. No tired tropes because it's the originator.
What to not expect: Insightful social commentary in the tradition of his Russian contemporaries or of the much later Hammett. Clearly defined puzzles in the tradition of Christie or Doyle.